Empowered to Serve: Living Jesus' Agenda for the Poor
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, Aldersgate United Methodist Church! Today, we celebrate our youth who are embarking on a mission trip to Nashville, and we reflect on our church's commitment to serving our community. We recently received recognition from Operation Warm Wishes for our contributions, and we are excited to continue our mission of service. We are also in the process of hiring a Director of Community Life to help us cultivate community and reach out to those outside our church.
Our guest speaker, Susan Harris, shared her experiences with Methodist ministries at the border, emphasizing the importance of serving the marginalized. We also discussed practical ways to serve, such as collecting food items for Sunday Supper. John the Baptist's call to share our resources with those in need reminds us of our duty to love and serve others.
Today's scripture from Luke 4 outlines Jesus' agenda: to bring good news to the poor, freedom to the bound, and love to the marginalized. This agenda is not new; it reflects God's consistent concern for the poor throughout the Old Testament. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live out this agenda, bridging the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it.
The early Methodist movement exemplified this spirit of service, investing in children, empowering the poor economically, and supporting them emotionally and physically. Our church continues this legacy through various partnerships and initiatives. However, we must continually assess and grow in our commitment to serving the poor.
I shared a personal story about meeting a homeless woman named Julie, which reminded me of the importance of relating to and praying for those in need. The Holy Spirit calls us to take practical steps to serve, whether through organized church activities or spontaneous acts of kindness.
As apprentices of Jesus, we are called to live out His agenda, empowered by the Holy Spirit. Let us pray for guidance and strength to serve the poor and marginalized, and to be energized by God's Spirit in all that we do.
### Key Takeaways
1. Jesus' Agenda for the Poor: Jesus' first public words in Luke 4 reveal His agenda to bring good news to the poor, freedom to the bound, and love to the marginalized. This agenda is rooted in the Old Testament and reflects God's consistent concern for the poor. We are called to live out this agenda in our own lives, empowered by the Holy Spirit. [48:10]
2. The Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit bridges the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it. God's Spirit empowers us to obey His commands and live out His Word. This empowerment is crucial for serving the poor and marginalized, as it transforms our intentions into actions. [53:36]
3. Historical Methodist Commitment: The early Methodist movement was a powerful example of the Spirit's work in serving the poor. Methodists invested in children, empowered the poor economically, and supported them emotionally and physically. This legacy continues in our church today through various partnerships and initiatives. [56:16]
4. Personal Reflection and Growth: We must continually assess our commitment to serving the poor. Personal stories, like my encounter with Julie, remind us of the importance of relating to and praying for those in need. Practical steps, whether through organized church activities or spontaneous acts of kindness, are essential in living out Jesus' agenda. [01:05:09]
5. Empowered to Serve: As apprentices of Jesus, we are called to live out His agenda, empowered by the Holy Spirit. This means actively seeking justice and compassion, loving the least, and caring for the poor. Let us pray for guidance and strength to be energized by God's Spirit in all that we do. [01:08:27]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[07:05] - Operation Warm Wishes Recognition
[18:01] - Director of Community Life Announcement
[18:59] - Introduction of Guest Speaker Susan Harris
[38:32] - Children's Message on Sharing
[42:31] - Prayer for Youth Mission Trip and Community
[48:10] - Jesus' Agenda in Luke 4
[51:58] - The Role of the Holy Spirit
[56:16] - Historical Methodist Commitment to the Poor
[01:00:43] - Personal Reflection on Serving the Poor
[01:05:09] - Encounter with Homeless Woman Julie
[01:08:27] - Empowered to Serve by the Holy Spirit
[01:09:21] - Offering and Doxology
[01:10:50] - Closing Worship Song: "I Will Follow"
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Luke 4:18-19 (NIV): "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."
2. Isaiah 58:6-7 (NIV): "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?"
3. Ezekiel 36:26-27 (NIV): "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws."
### Observation Questions
1. What specific agenda does Jesus outline in Luke 4:18-19?
2. According to Isaiah 58:6-7, what actions does God desire from His people?
3. In Ezekiel 36:26-27, what transformation does God promise to His people?
4. How did the early Methodist movement exemplify the spirit of service to the poor? [56:16]
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Jesus' agenda in Luke 4:18-19 reflect God's consistent concern for the poor throughout the Old Testament? [48:10]
2. What role does the Holy Spirit play in empowering believers to live out Jesus' agenda, according to the sermon? [53:36]
3. How can the historical commitment of the Methodist movement to serving the poor inspire our current church practices? [56:16]
4. Reflecting on the pastor's personal story about Julie, what can we learn about the importance of relating to and praying for those in need? [01:05:09]
### Application Questions
1. Jesus' agenda includes bringing good news to the poor and setting the oppressed free. How can you personally contribute to this mission in your daily life? [48:10]
2. The Holy Spirit empowers us to bridge the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it. What is one specific action you feel the Holy Spirit is prompting you to take this week to serve the marginalized? [53:36]
3. The early Methodists invested in children, supported the poor economically, and provided emotional and physical support. What is one practical way you can follow their example in your community? [56:16]
4. The pastor shared a story about meeting a homeless woman named Julie and the impact of that encounter. Have you had a similar experience where you felt called to help someone in need? How did you respond, and what did you learn from it? [01:05:09]
5. Reflect on the ways our church currently serves the poor and marginalized. What is one area where you think we could improve or expand our efforts? [57:51]
6. The sermon emphasized the importance of taking practical steps to serve, whether through organized church activities or spontaneous acts of kindness. What is one specific step you can take this week to serve someone in need? [01:02:32]
7. The pastor mentioned the importance of being energized by God's Spirit to live out Jesus' agenda. How can you seek the Holy Spirit's guidance and strength in your efforts to serve others this week? [01:08:27]
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus' Agenda for the Poor
Jesus' first public words in Luke 4 reveal His agenda to bring good news to the poor, freedom to the bound, and love to the marginalized. This agenda is rooted in the Old Testament and reflects God's consistent concern for the poor. We are called to live out this agenda in our own lives, empowered by the Holy Spirit. Jesus' mission was not just a spiritual one but also a social one, aimed at transforming the lives of those who are often overlooked and oppressed.
As followers of Jesus, we are invited to participate in this mission. This means actively seeking out ways to bring good news to the poor, whether through acts of kindness, advocacy, or direct service. It is a call to be the hands and feet of Jesus in a world that desperately needs His love and justice. Reflect on how you can embody this agenda in your daily life, and ask the Holy Spirit to guide and empower you in this mission. [48:10]
Isaiah 61:1-2 (ESV): "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn."
Reflection: How can you bring good news to someone in need today? What practical steps can you take to show love and compassion to the marginalized in your community?
Day 2: The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit bridges the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it. God's Spirit empowers us to obey His commands and live out His Word. This empowerment is crucial for serving the poor and marginalized, as it transforms our intentions into actions. Often, we may feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the needs around us or unsure of how to help effectively.
The Holy Spirit provides the wisdom, strength, and courage we need to step out in faith and make a difference. By relying on the Holy Spirit, we can move beyond our limitations and fears, trusting that God will work through us to accomplish His purposes. Take time to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with His power and guidance as you seek to serve others. [53:36]
Acts 1:8 (ESV): "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need the Holy Spirit's empowerment to serve others? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen you in your daily actions?
Day 3: Historical Methodist Commitment
The early Methodist movement was a powerful example of the Spirit's work in serving the poor. Methodists invested in children, empowered the poor economically, and supported them emotionally and physically. This legacy continues in our church today through various partnerships and initiatives. The early Methodists understood that true faith is demonstrated through action, and they were committed to addressing the social issues of their time.
Their efforts included establishing schools, providing financial assistance, and offering emotional and spiritual support to those in need. This historical commitment serves as an inspiration for us to continue the work of serving the poor and marginalized in our own communities. Reflect on the ways your church or community is already involved in this mission and consider how you can contribute to these efforts. [56:16]
James 2:14-17 (ESV): "What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace, be warmed and filled,' without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."
Reflection: How can you actively participate in your church's efforts to serve the poor and marginalized? What specific actions can you take to support these initiatives?
Day 4: Personal Reflection and Growth
We must continually assess our commitment to serving the poor. Personal stories, like the encounter with Julie, remind us of the importance of relating to and praying for those in need. Practical steps, whether through organized church activities or spontaneous acts of kindness, are essential in living out Jesus' agenda. It is easy to become complacent or overwhelmed by the needs around us, but personal reflection helps us stay focused and motivated.
Take time to reflect on your own experiences and interactions with those in need. Consider how you can grow in your commitment to serving others and what changes you might need to make in your daily life. Ask God to open your eyes to the opportunities around you and to give you a heart of compassion and generosity. [01:05:09]
Matthew 25:35-36 (ESV): "For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me."
Reflection: Think of a recent encounter you had with someone in need. How did you respond, and how might you respond differently in the future? What practical steps can you take to be more intentional in serving others?
Day 5: Empowered to Serve
As apprentices of Jesus, we are called to live out His agenda, empowered by the Holy Spirit. This means actively seeking justice and compassion, loving the least, and caring for the poor. Let us pray for guidance and strength to be energized by God's Spirit in all that we do. Serving others is not just a duty but a privilege and a way to experience God's love and power in our lives.
When we step out in faith to serve, we often find that we are the ones who are blessed and transformed. The Holy Spirit equips us with the gifts and abilities we need to make a difference, and He works through us to bring hope and healing to those around us. Embrace the call to serve and trust that God will use you in powerful ways. [01:08:27]
1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."
Reflection: What gifts and abilities has God given you to serve others? How can you use these gifts to make a difference in your community today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "God wants us to do that because God loves everyone. And I have two sons. And if one son had a lot and one son didn't have anything, I'd want them to share. And so, this is something that I love because it's so practical. But right now, we're collecting peanuts and raisins. And I went with my two sons and we bought these at Spartan Final and then we bought these because we're collecting Chef Boyardee or SpaghettiOs. Who likes SpaghettiOs? Okay, no. You guys like, I just go to Starbucks. I got it. I got it. I got it. So, we're collecting Chef Boyardee or SpaghettiOs and canned peaches for Sunday supper, where we're going to serve next Sunday." (37 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. Then, with the eyes of everyone on him, and I love how Jesus says, today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing. See, Jesus is saying, this is why I'm here. This is my agenda. To bring good news to the poor. To bring freedom to the bound and broken. To serve the marginalized. To love the least. I have come to bring good news to those who are used to hearing bad news. To include those who have been excluded. To love the poor and marginalized. This is Jesus' agenda." (55 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Knowing what to do is not the same thing as doing it. Can I get an amen? Amen. Knowing what to do is not the same We know we are to be generous with the poor. The prophets are very clear. We know we are to love the least. I think everyone I know would agree. But do we actually do it? Is that how we live? Look at our world. Look at the inequality in our world. The problem for all of us is that there's a gap between what we know and what we do. And God gives us the Holy Spirit in order to bridge this gap. God's Spirit empowers us to do what God calls us to do." (54 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God is saying, I'm going to give you the gift of the Holy Spirit to make it possible for you to do what I tell you to do. My spirit will energize you to keep my commands. God commands us to care for the poor. And the Spirit energizes us to do that. This is what we see throughout the Bible, what we see throughout church history, and definitely what we see in the history of the Methodist church." (36 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "As apprentices of Jesus, his agenda is ours. Right? And the spirit of the Lord is on us. We have been anointed with God's spirit. To bring good news to the poor. To live out Jesus' agenda in our world today. So I pray that we will do that this week. And that we will do that being energized by God's spirit." (34 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "In an age of loneliness and isolation, the Director of Community Life will help us reach our local community by cultivating community. They will lead us in serving. And reaching people outside our church. And connecting these people to one another in the church. They will serve as a bridge between our church and the local community around us. As such, they will support our mission and outreach team. Building partnerships with neighbors and organizations outside of our church. They will help those in the church experiment and identify innovative approaches to blessing people outside the church in God-honoring and life-giving ways." (37 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The Spirit is leading Jesus. The Spirit is empowering, energizing Jesus. See, we're in the midst of this series on the Holy Spirit, and each week in this series, we're asking, what does the Spirit energize us to do? And what we discover this week is that the Spirit energizes us to love the poor. The Spirit energizes us to serve the marginalized. The Spirit energizes us to do the work of justice and compassion. See, and for me, that's really good news. For me, that's really good news, and here's why. Knowing what to do is not the same thing as doing it." (49 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "From the very beginning, Methodists have loved and empowered the poor in beautiful ways. We see this in our very beginnings, in our roots, right? Early Methodists invested in children. They tutored children who lived in poverty. They built workhouses. They built orphanages. They built schools. They empowered the poor economically. They set up cottage industries for women, such as knitting. And they provided interest-free loans for small business owners. And early Methodists supported the poor emotionally. They established homes for widows. They visited prisoners, especially those facing the death penalty. Methodists served people's physical needs. They established medical clinics." (38 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "I intentionally place myself in relationship with the poor. I engage in regular acts of service towards the poor with the goal of building relationships with them. I mean, once a month at Sunday supper is two hours out of the month. I don't know how many hours that is, but I know there's 168 hours in a week. So times that by four, folks. So, I sat there and I looked at this and I thought, I know I am to love the poor. But am I actually doing it?" (34 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I think her life is so complicated. But it was just like, just relate to her. Right? Like the spirit is upon us to love and bless others. Don't be afraid to do that. See, as apprentices of Jesus, his agenda is ours. Right? And the spirit of the Lord is on us. We have been anointed with God's spirit. To bring good news to the poor. To live out Jesus' agenda in our world today. So I pray that we will do that this week. And that we will do that being energized by God's spirit." (34 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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